Deep Learning OCTA Segmentation for Foveal Avascular Zone Analysis

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for analyzing optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) scans, particularly for diagnosing retinal diseases like diabetic retinopathy, are cumbersome, expensive, and prone to inter- and intra-pathologist variability, requiring manual corrections that are time-consuming and unreliable.

Innovation Solution

A deep learning model is trained using a dataset of OCTA volumes to accurately segment the foveal avascular zone (FAZ) and its boundaries, employing a UNet-based segmentation backbone with modules for FAZ, FAZ boundary, and vessel detection, and utilizing augmentation techniques to enhance training accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual analysis by pathologists is used, then diagnostic accuracy can be maintained, but time consumption and cost increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvediagnostic accuracyVSAvoidtime consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses deep learning models to create digital copies of pathologist analysis capabilities. The neural network is trained on annotated OCTA images to replicate the diagnostic functions previously requiring human pathologists, enabling automated analysis that maintains accuracy while reducing time consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical process of manual visual inspection and interpretation by pathologists with an automated computational system. The deep learning model processes OCTA images through neural network layers, substituting human cognitive processing with algorithmic analysis that operates continuously without fatigue.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If manual analysis by pathologists is used, then diagnostic accuracy can be maintained, but cost increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvediagnostic accuracyVSAvoidcost
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates computational copies of diagnostic expertise through trained neural networks. Once the model is trained on a comprehensive dataset, it can perform analyses at minimal marginal cost, replacing the need to continuously compensate human pathologists for each analysis performed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-service analysis once trained, automatically processing new OCTA images without requiring human intervention. The model independently evaluates retinal structures, identifies pathologies, and generates diagnoses, eliminating the need for ongoing human expert resources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Measurement precision

If manual analysis is performed, then detailed examination can be conducted, but inter- and intra-pathologist variability occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetailed examination qualityVSAvoidconsistency
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements homogeneity in diagnostic evaluation by using a single standardized neural network model that applies consistent criteria to all analyses. Unlike human pathologists who may vary in their interpretations, the model provides uniform, reproducible results based on its trained parameters, eliminating inter- and intra-observer variability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #33Homogeneity

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms through its training process, where the neural network continuously refines its analysis based on ground truth annotations and performance metrics. This feedback loop ensures consistent and reliable diagnostic output by adjusting the model's decision boundaries based on validated reference standards.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

4Measurement precision

If manual corrections are performed, then accuracy can be improved, but time consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanalysis accuracyVSAvoidtime for corrections
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-service through automated quality control mechanisms that continuously monitor and adjust its own performance. The neural network can identify and correct its own errors by comparing predictions against ground truth data during training, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual corrections of automated analyses.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies preliminary action by performing comprehensive training on annotated datasets before deployment. The model learns correct identification patterns during training, so when it operates, it produces accurate results without requiring subsequent manual correction, as the accuracy is built into the model's fundamental operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS20250299824A1Machine learning enabled analysis of optical coherence tomography angiography scans for diagnosis and treatment
Publication Date: 2025.09.25 GENENTECH INC
  • US20250299824A1 patent drawing
  • US20250299824A1 patent drawing
  • US20250299824A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods and systems for foveal avascular zone (FAZ) segmentation of a retina. A three dimensional optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) volume of a retina of a subject is received. The OCTA volume comprising a plurality of layers. A slab input for a model system is formed using the OCTA volume. The model system comprising a deep learning model. A set of mask images is generated, via the model system, based on the slab input. The set of mask images includes an area mask image that accurately and reliably identifies an area of a foveal avascular zone captured by the OCT volume.